It is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such arrangements impede individuals from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, as a development suited to a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adjusting to split households. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively is a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. Its storyline proves to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable hinges on the strength of the performances and one's taste for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – the kind who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some stilted moments between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the bizarre setting. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is by far the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
